Measurement & Density

PHY 100 & 103

Introduces various techniques for making precision measurements that will be used throughout the course. Difference between accuracy and precision assessed as well as methods for quantifying each. Direct measurements of the mass and dimensions of solid objects allow students to calculate volumes and finally densities. Direct measurement of liquid volume and mass of liquid with container allow calculation of liquid mass and density. Students should be instructed in the careful use of instruments such as the meter stick, dial caliper, graduated cylinder, and three types of balances as to illustrate differences in precision. Compare volume of plastic cubic centimeter to cubic meter stick figure.

Equipment

Notes

There should already be meter sticks and rulers on the conduit next to every lab table. Also, the metal cube and metal cylinder MUST be of the same type of metal at each table. Type of metal should alternate between aluminum, brass, and iron from table to table. Cubic Meter should be assembled.

The Cylindrical masses have symbols on the bottom.

Aluminum - No Symbol
Iron/Steel - +
Brass - =
Copper - ^
Zinc - .

Note: brass/copper can be used interchangeably

Along with the initial apparatus set-up, supply a sufficient number of the appropriate paper procedure handouts for all of the lab sections that will use the set-up over the course of the week. Print the PDF, duplicate to double-sided pages, staple, and leave pile on instructor's table prior to first use of set-up.